Pune, India | December 11, 2025
Economic recovery and increasing travel demand are driving significant Airport Growth in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East. Airports Council International (ACI) predicts strong passenger traffic growth between 2025 and 2028.
ACI compiled the forecast using data from OAG, covering 1,207 airports across 33 Asia-Pacific countries and ten in the Middle East. Analysts expect 4.8 percent annual growth in Asia-Pacific, while Middle East airports will achieve 5.4 percent yearly growth, leading global trends.
Strong Airport Growth stems from rising demand for air travel and continuous airport investments. Airports are expanding terminals, enhancing technology, and streamlining passenger services. Furthermore, domestic and international travel are both recovering, driving overall growth across these strategic regions.
Southern Asia shows the highest Airport Growth, particularly in India, where annual passenger traffic will increase 6.3 percent. Domestic travel has already surpassed pre-pandemic levels by 12.6 percent. South-East Asia will grow 5.1 percent annually, with Vietnam leading at 8.1 percent, followed by Thailand and Indonesia.
Eastern Asia forecasts 4.3 percent growth per year, with international traffic increasing 6.6 percent due to China’s outbound travel demand. Airports are expanding terminals, runways, and passenger services to accommodate the growing passenger flow.
Middle East airports will also see significant traffic increases. Domestic traffic is projected to grow 5.5 percent annually, while international travel steadily recovers. Saudi Arabia expects 72.5 million passengers by 2028, up from 58 million in 2024, reflecting Airport Growth through infrastructure development.
Major hubs in the UAE and Qatar are investing heavily in airport expansion projects, including terminals, runways, and technology. These improvements strengthen operational efficiency and the region’s position as a global aviation hub.
Stefano Baronci, ACI APAC & MID Director General, noted that Airport Growth faces potential challenges from geopolitical instability and supply constraints. Coordinated policy, investment, and infrastructure planning are essential for sustainable expansion.
Airports are adopting digital solutions, automating processes, and implementing smart technology to enhance passenger experience. Airport Growth now requires both infrastructure expansion and technology integration to meet passenger demand.
Analysts emphasize that Airport Growth will drive tourism, trade, and regional economic development. Airports serve as gateways connecting businesses, travelers, and markets. Airlines and tourism operators are expected to gain significantly from increased passenger volumes and enhanced airport operations.
In summary, Asia-Pacific and the Middle East are entering a period of unprecedented Airport Growth. With coordinated planning, technology adoption, and supportive policies, airports will continue strengthening global connectivity and regional economic growth.
